If you've always wanted to see a bison or want to see some again, now is the perfect time.
The Lake Audy Bison enclosure in Riding Mountain National Park features a herd of roughly 40 Plains Bison. They nearly went extinct during mass game hunting but have been reintroduced to several national parks around Canada.
Bison tend to be more active during dawn and dusk. In colder, more dreary weather, they spend more time in open fields.
It's also rutting season. This is when males experience a surge in testosterone. They compete with other Bison for dominance in mating and are often out and about. Add it all up, and it's the perfect time to make a trip to the enclosure.
Tim Sallows is the resource conservation officer in Riding Mountain National Park.
"Most people, when they first see a bison, are amazed at how big they are. You'll be amazed at how high they can jump and how fast they can run," said Sallows. "In Lake Audy, they have a beautiful pasture they roam around on. The Bison are keeping it natural. You'll see many different flowers. The Bison are resting there and waiting for people to come see them."
As is the case with all wildlife in RMNP, do not feed the animals. It is illegal. If you are caught and convicted, you could be fined up to $25,000.
Another big no-no when visiting the Bison enclosure is getting out of your vehicle.
"We suggest people don't get out of their vehicles when they're in the Bison enclosure," said Sallows. "They can move pretty quickly. They go like 60 kilometres an hour if they're in a rush to get somewhere. The chances of you getting out of the way are pretty slim."
Tim also encourages people to take plenty of photos. You're also asked to drive through the enclosure slowly.
